Department of Art
Step Into Creativity
The UAA Fine Arts Building is home to a vibrant and inclusive community of students and faculty in which we currently offer two undergraduate arts degrees, a minor in art, and an Occupational Endorsement Certificate in Graphic Design
It is a place of discovery where students can choose from 6 areas of study and find their own unique way to communicate and express themselves visually. Students are mentored to be courageous, ask thoughtful questions, solve problems creatively and develop the skill sets necessary to be engaged professionals.
Dedicated faculty, challenging curricula, well-equipped studios, a dynamic roster of visiting artists, and a gallery that focuses on national and international art exhibitions are the aspects of our department which empowers and prepares students for graduate study and careers in the visual arts.
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Faculty Spotlight: Mariano Gonzales
“Art is an expression.... It is how people express themselves, and show their individuality. Art has always been a part of humanity, and while it can be different for everyone it is still essential to human existence and experience. Art is also a way to communicate, to express emotions, or start conversations." Professor Mariano Gonzales shares his reflections on his 35+ years of teaching and work as an artist.
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Student Spotlight: Sanjo Wolfe
“Since I was seven, I have been involved in something musical or creative. Music, the Arts? They are an asset.....When I came to UAA as a Fine Arts student, I found a way to be involved in the music program. I believe that the arts, that music, are important for people. Music particularly touches the soul, and really helps people, even if they don’t always recognize it.” BFA Student Sanjo Wolfe shares his thoughts on the Arts.
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Current Gallery Exhibitions
Native Arts Student Showcase: An exhibition of student work from UAA Native Arts classes
Arc Gallery, UAA Consortium Library
Exhibition Dates: February 23- April 19
This group exhibition highlights the work made by students enrolled in June Pardue’s Native Arts classes, held in conjunction with June Pardue's solo exhibition, “Sugpiak Art Renaissance”.
More information can be found on the Arc Gallery Website
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David John Angaiak Mentors Students in Alaska Native Arts ClassesIn the fall of 2023, students who are enrolled in Native Arts classes will have the opportunity to learn from David John Angaiak, a Yup’ik and Unungan artist currently living in Wasilla. June Simeonoff Pardue, a Native culture bearer and coordinator of the Native Arts Program at UAA approached David John about being a Native Visiting Artist in Residence.
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Current Gallery Exhibitions
Sugpiak Art Renaissance
June Pardue
Kimura Gallery, UAA Fine Arts
Exhibition dates: February 23- April 5
This solo exhibition highlights the work of June (Simeonoff) Pardue, an Alutiiq and Inupiaq artist who resides in remote Sutton, Alaska. Originally from Old Harbor Village on Kodiak Island, June is recognized as an Alutiiq grass weaver, fish skin tanner, fish leather and sea mammal skin sewer, jeweler, and beader. June is currently the Adjunct Professor of Art, Native Arts at UAA.
More information can be found on the Kimura Gallery website: https://alaska.
digication.com/kimura-gallery
Art Galleries to Explore
Kimura Gallery: The gallery programming is used to enhance the curriculum of studio art and art history classes and expand students thinking and approach to making art.
Arc Gallery: Dedicated to enriching the UAA and Anchorage community by producing exhibitions featuring emerging, mid-career, and established Alaskan artists.
Hugh McPeck Gallery: Located on the second floor of the Student Union, showcases artwork created by UAA Students.
